Independent Board Trustee Volunteer Roles

Want to make a difference to your local community?

Become a Trustee of Ruils & be the change you want to see!

Ruils Independent Living is a local charity that supports disabled children and adults to live independent lives.

We are a small charity with a BIG vision and are looking for new Trustees to help us to remove the barriers disabled people face. As a user-led charity, we are particularly looking for disabled people and people who have experience of the health & social care system.

No prior trustee experience is required, we can provide training and mentoring. All you need is enthusiasm, a desire to learn and time to commit to the work of Ruils.

All trustees will receive a full Induction and training is available. Travel expenses are also covered.

We currently have hybrid meetings and 6 full board meetings per year with the expectation that each Trustee attends one subcommittee every other month.

To find out more, please visit our website. 

Africa Health Organisation (AHO) and its Subsidiaries
Africa Health Organisation (AHO) is looking for trustees and Board of Directors for its board and for its subsidiaries. AHO subsidiaries are independent and operate an independent Board of Trustees/Directors separate from AHO. Trustees of a Company Limited by Guarantee are called Directors for the purpose of Company Law. We are looking for the following trustees:

Africa Health Organisation (AHO) - 4 Trustees/Board of Directors

Subsidiaries
(1) Africa AIDS Foundation - 3 Trustees/Board of Directors
(2) Africa Age Foundation - 3 Trustees/Board of Directors
(3) Africa Animal Health Alliance - 3 Trustees/Board of Directors
(4) Africa Climate Change Alliance - 3 Trustees/Board of Directors
(5) Africa Community Development Alliance - 3 Trustees/Board of Directors
(6) Africa Conciliation and Mediation Service - 3 Trustees/Board of Directors
(7) Africa Credit Union (ACU) - 5 Board of Directors (for profit)
(8) Africa Dental Association - 3 Trustees/Board of Director
(9) Africa Diabetes Association - 3 Trustees/Board of Directors
(10) Africa Ealy Years Development - 3 Trustees/Board of Directors
(11) Africa Environment Conservation Alliance - 3 Trustees/Board of Directors
(12) Africa Family Planning Alliance - 3 Trustees/Board of Directors
(13) Africa Food Development Programme - 3 Trustees/Board of Directors
(14) Africa Foundation for Education - 3 Trustees/Board of Directors
(15) Africa Genomics - 5 Board of Directors (for profit)
(16) Africa Heritage Fund - 3 Trustees/Board of Directors
(17) Africa Initiative for Sustainable Development - 3 Trustees/Board of Directors)
(18) Africa Mental Health - 3 Trustees/Board of Directors
(19) African Mothers Alliance Initiative - 3 Trustees/Board of Directors
(20) Africa Nursing and Care Agency - 5 Board of Directors (for profit)
(21) Africa Pharmaceutical - 5 Board of Directors (for profit)
(22) Africa Prostate Cancer Association - 3 Trustees/Board of Directors
(23) Africa Recycling Development Alliance - 5 Board of Directors (for profit)
(24) Africa Refugee Council - 3 Trustees/Board of Directors
(25) Africa Rural Development Alliance - 3 Trustees/Board of Directors
(26) Africa TB Organisation Programme - 3 Trustees/Board of Directors
(27) African Children's Development - 3 Trustees/Board of Directors
(28) African Women's Association - 3 Trustees/Board of Directors
(29) African Council of Families - 3 Trustees/Board of Directors
(30) African Youth Association - 3 Trustees/Board of Directors

We encourage people from White, Asian and Minority Ethnic (WAME) to apply as they are under-represented on our Board of Directors. By White we mean European descent, Asians such as Chinese, Vietnamese, Korean, Japanese, Indonesian, Thai, Cambodian, Bangladeshi, Philipinos, Indian, Pakistani, Sri Lankan, etc. Minority Ethnic we mean Latinos, Arabs, Eastern Europeans, Mediteraneans, etc.

The role of a Trustee
Trustees work as part of a Board of Trustees/Directors in order to: inform the organisation’s strategic direction; scrutinise the financial management of the organisation; and ensure the sound governance of the organisation. Trustees are not responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operation of the organisation. However, they are responsible for scrutinising the operational decisions taken by the Chief Executive Officer, to ensure that the organisation operates effectively and in line with its objectives and values.

Hours, location and benefits
Meetings
- Trustees are required to attend quarterly Board meetings in person or video conference like zoom.
- All Trustees are required to participate in at least one Sub-Group. These meetings are held once every quarter.
- Trustees are required to attend the Annual General Meeting.
- Preparatory work is required in advance of and sometimes following each meeting.

Additional responsibilities
- Trustees may be required or encouraged to contribute to AHO-related activity outside meetings, e.g. to participate in staff interview panels, to participate in specific project-focused tasks, to contribute to decision-making that requires the involvement of the Trustees.
- Trustees are strongly encouraged to occasionally visit the projects.
- Trustees are strongly encouraged to attend the annual Staff Away-day and the Board’s annual strategic planning day.

Benefits
Trustees are volunteers who give their time, skills and expertise for no financial gain. Reasonable expenses will be reimbursed in line with the organisation’s Volunteer Policy.

Person specification
It is essential that a diverse skills set is represented amongst the Board of Trustees/Directors. It is expected that the Trustees work as a team, such that they can draw on different skills depending on the task in hand. We encourage you to highlight your particular strengths, so that we can compare these to the skills already represented on the Board.

Beyond these specific skills, there are some more general criteria that are either essential or desirable for Trustees of AHO.

Essential criteria
- A commitment to the values and objectives of Africa Health Organisation (AHO).
- We are encouraging students to apply so that they can gain experience in governance.

- We encourage people from White, Asian and Minority Ethnic (WAME) to apply as they are under-represented on our Board of Directors. By White we mean European descent, Asians such as Chinese, Vietnamese, Korean, Japanese, Indonesian, Thai, Cambodian, Bangladeshi, Philipinos, Indian, Pakistani, Sri Lankan, etc. Minority Ethnic we mean Latinos, Arabs, Eastern Europeans, Mediteraneans, etc.
- Directors of a profit making subsidiary must have appropriate qualifications and experience.
- An ability to work effectively as a member of a team
- An ability to communicate effectively
- An ability to make sound, independent judgements
- An ability to think creatively
- An understanding and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities of trusteeship

Desirable criteria
- Knowledge and understanding of health issues affecting people in Africa and its effects on the people.

Additional requirement
Please note, some Trustees (working with children and vulnerable adults) are required to have a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check and hold an up to date certificate. The DBS check will be arranged by AHO.

About Alopecia UK

Alopecia UK is a charity working to improve the lives of those affected by alopecia through aims of Support, Awareness and Research.  Founded in 2004, we work to help adults, young people and children affected by alopecia.  This includes those with the condition, as well as their loved ones.  We are a small charity working nationally across the UK.  Despite being small, we are the largest alopecia charity in the UK and have big ambitions to continue our growth and development, reaching more people and funding more research than ever before. 

We have a fantastic staff team and board of Trustees, as well as a loyal network of volunteers and supporters. This is a fantastic opportunity for a passionate and innovative applicant to support a small yet dynamic charity, and make a lasting difference to the lives of those affected by alopecia.

Alopecia UK Trustee Board

Our Board of Trustees is responsible for the overall strategic direction of Alopecia UK. They represent a wide range of expertise from across finance, healthcare, communications, management and risk; in both private and public sectors.

The Trustee Board meets 4 times a year (two face-to-face meetings and two virtual meetings). Face-to-face meetings tend to be held on Saturdays from approximately 11am-4pm. Virtual meetings tend to be held midweek from approximately 6.30-8.30pm.

Alopecia UK Treasurer

Our Treasurer oversees the monitoring of the organisation’s finances alongside the Board Chair and Charity CEO, reporting regularly to the board and ensuring the bookkeeping, record keeping, and budgeting are done properly.

In addition to the 4 regular trustee meeting, the Treasurer spends approx 12-15 hours per quarter on accounts prep, budget prep, finance meetings etc.

This is a volunteer position.  Out-of-pocket expenses are payable.

The duties of the Treasurer include:

• Assist in the preparation of annual budgets and monitor performance against these.
• Preparation of quarterly management account packs (to include sense checking the bookkeeping records) and presentation of these to the Trustee board as part of the Trustee meetings.

Requirements for the role:

• A commitment to the charity’s mission to improve the lives of those affected by alopecia
• A willingness to devote the necessary time and effort
• Possesses relevant financial qualifications and experience, including knowledge of charity finance and accounting for charitable funds
• Experience in governance and administration
• Possesses strategic vision, good independent judgement, and the ability to think creatively
• Understands and accepts the legal duties, responsibilities, and liabilities of trusteeship
• Strong organisational skills
• Understanding of sensitivities relating to confidential information
• An ability to work effectively as a member of a team
• A commitment to Nolan’s seven principles of public life: selflessness, integrity, objectivity, accountability, openness, honesty and leadership
• Ability to work collaboratively and establish credibility with the Charity's trustees
• Remotely attending monthly finance catch ups with the internal staff team.
• Liaise with external accountants as part of the year end accounts process and assist in answering questions.
• Create and ensure implementation of sounds financial instruments, controls and systems for AUK’s assets.
• Advise on the financial implications of AUK’s strategic objectives.
• Act as a signatory on AUK’s banking transactions and any applications for funds, eg: grants and awards
• Keep on top of regulatory filings with The Charities Commission and OSCR
• Contribute actively to the Board of Trustees’ role in providing financial direction to the charity, including overseeing financial policy, goals, targets and evaluating performance against agree targets.
• Embrace and respect the culture of Alopecia UK.

Please refer to the Charity Commission guidance on good practice of charity meetings, also to Alopecia UK’s Charity Commission records. You can also read Alopecia UK’s 2021-2024 strategy. 

Your Application

If you would like an informal discussion about the role and what’s involved, one of the current trustees would be very happy to talk to you. Please email with your details and we will get back to you.

Interview dates:  To be confirmed.

All interviews will be held over Zoom.

Supporting Statement

We would love to understand more about you and your reasons for wanting to join the board of trustees at Alopecia UK and this information will be key for us in shortlisting.  Within your supporting statement please comment on:

• Why you want to support the work of Alopecia UK as the Treasurer
• How you meet the person specification
• What you feel you would bring in terms of experience, skillset, and knowledge base
• Any knowledge/experience you have of Alopecia UK and whether you have been involved in the charity’s work in the past (not essential)
• Your statement should not exceed 1,000 words. 

The Martin James Foundation (MJF) is a global network of charitable organisations working with a shared vision of a world in which children grow up and thrive in safe and loving families.

Through our work, we strive to bring an end to institutional care for children, including orphanages, by engaging in family strengthening work and gatekeeping to prevent family separation, reunification and reintegration of children back into their families and communities when possible and facilitating family-based alternative care when it is necessary. Finally, we are committed to supporting young people to thrive while realising their full potential.

The Foundation is comprised of the following:

• MJF Global - utilises technical and financial resources generated by the Foundation to invest in partner organisations that support children and families in various countries, contributing to the global efforts in deinstitutionalising care practices.

• Key Assets - independent, non-profit fostering agencies in Australia, Canada, Japan, and New Zealand delivering charitable services for children, families and communities.

• EPIC - a programme which supports young people in the UK who have faced adversity or have lived experience of care, empowering them to create and launch their own businesses.

The Role:

The Martin James Foundation is entering a transformative phase and is inviting passionate, committed individuals to join our Board of Trustees during this pivotal moment. We seek to welcome Board Members who can offer fresh perspectives, fill existing skill gaps, and guide the charity on its mission to support children, families, and communities worldwide. 

We are particularly interested in candidates with diverse experiences and backgrounds. Among our new trustees, we hope to include:

• Individuals with lived experience of alternative care whose experiences and insights will guide us to create impactful and responsive services that always prioritise the best interests of children. Your perspective will shape policies and programmes, building trust within communities and shaping a culture of inclusivity. 

• An individual with a finance background, particularly in the non-profit sector, to guide us on financial matters and help us navigate the unique financial landscape of charities with both strategic insight and practical oversight.

The commitment for trustees averages eight days per year, including remote quarterly Board meetings, participation in technical sub-committees, and strategic sessions with the leadership team. Although the positions are voluntary, we ensure that reasonable expenses are covered and any necessary training costs are provided.

We are dedicated to meaningfully diversifying our Board, aiming to enhance our perspectives and approaches with a range of voices and experiences. Therefore, we encourage applicants of all ages and diverse backgrounds to consider these roles, particularly those with lived experience of alternative care or from outside the UK. 

Please refer to our Trustee Role Information documents for further details on the roles. To apply, please send a cover letter and CV outlining what experience you can bring to the role  by 7 January 2024. 

We are seeking to diversify our board! We are looking for one Trustee and one Chair.  Do you have a passion for sex workers’ rights and safety? Do you want to be part of a charity with vital real-world impact? Do you have the time and skills to guide NUM’s board and staff towards its mission? Then we’d love to hear from you.

We are especially keen to receive applications from people of colour, others with marginalised identities and sex work experience. If you’d like to speak with someone in advance of applying, please contact the current chair, Siân Prime, at sian[at]uglymugs[dot]org with Chair Enquiry in the subject line.

About NUM:

National Ugly Mugs (NUM) is an award-winning charity with a mission to ‘end all forms of violence against sex workers.’ NUM provides a mechanism for sex industry workers to report crimes and harm they experience and share this information within their communities to warn others of potentially dangerous individuals and situations.

We have a dedicated casework team of industry experts who support sex workers to further access criminal justice remedies and other services as determined by victims/survivors to cope and recover from crimes they experience in the ways they choose. We also host a range of other projects in racial justice, mental health, drop-in support (Scotland), and vocational exploration.

Our main aims are to: 

• Increase sex worker safety and prevent crime and harms against this diverse population of adults.

• Support sex workers in generating knowledge and sharing their experiences in ways that advance the well-being of their communities, increase the social inclusion of sex workers and an end discrimination, criminalisation, and violence.

• Provide survivor-centred, trauma-informed support services.

• Facilitate sex workers in safely accessing the public services of their choosing and in educating communities of stakeholders to ensure that:

• sex workers are the ones characterising their work and defining their circumstances, needs and priorities.

• services are informed about the needs and priorities of sex workers in order to promote non-judgemental treatment and respectful engagement.

• all sex workers, irrespective of class, race, gender, sexuality, ability, status in the country and type of sex work, receive consistent, protective responses from police when they access them for help.

• sex workers inform justice, victim support, anti-violence and inclusion health initiatives in ways that improve their wellbeing and increase their engagement in civil society.

We serve sex workers of all genders, ages, abilities, cultures and modes of work and offer a digital reporting and alerting mechanism to warn these communities about dangerous individuals who may target them. We provide individualised specialist support from experiential support staff and others trained as Independent Sexual Violence Advisors (ISVA) who ensure sex workers have the information and resources needed to make important choices about their lives.

Key facts

• NUM has 17 members of staff, and 8 board members

• In 2022:

  • NUM had over 9000 members, 80% of whom were sex workers

  • Our Case Work Team provided direct support to over 737 sex workers 

  • 519 reports of harm perpetrated against sex workers were submitted to NUM, and we sent out over 760,000 alerts to sex workers to prevent further violence 

How to apply:

Please submit a cover letter (of no more than two sides of A4) and a CV (which can detail volunteering and/or employment experience) through CharityJobs or by email to admin[at]nationaluglymugs[dot]org

Both roles roles are open until filled.

Please read our role description attached to find out more about who we’re looking for.

We are looking for our new Chair to help us in the next stage of development – growing the number of specialised parent-infant relationship teams across the UK from 45 to 450 and unleashing the transformational power of their work.

Who we are

We were set up in 2012 to support the development of innovative specialised parent-infant relationship teams to provide mental health support for parents and babies with challenged early relationships. By convening the First 1001 days movement, we make sure the importance of parent-infant relationships on babies’ brain development and their future mental and physical health is incorporated into policy.

The role

Main responsibilities

Strategy and Governance

• Ensuring that the Board operates effectively in the consideration, iteration and approval of the strategy proposed by the CEO and Senior Leadership team in support of the Foundation’s vision
• Ensuring, with Trustees, that the Foundation Trust operates efficiently and effectively to fulfil its objectives
• Ensuring high standards of governance and risk management Ensuring that the Board is as diverse as possible and provides the range of knowledge, skills and experience necessary to deliver the Foundation’s aims including regular appraisal and review of the Board and its Trustees.
• Ensuring the organisation is accountable and transparent in its activities Ensuring compliance with relevant charitable and company legislation

Lead Board Meetings

• Lead all on all aspects of meeting management including: encouraging discussion at Board meetings, summarising key points and ensuring decisions are made and implemented

Guidance and support to the CEO

• Appointment and appraisal of the CEO
• Regular formal and informal 1-2-1 meetings with the CEO
• Work in partnership with the CEO to support them achieve the aims of the Foundation Support and guidance on operations, including personnel management as appropriate

Financial

• Ensuring, with the Board, sound financial oversight including review and approval of the annual budget
• Oversight of high standards of financial management

Advocacy

• Using personal and professional networks to help the executive with access/ insights to relevant stakeholders and supporters including government, civil society, funders and other partners
• Advice and assistance in raising and maintaining the Foundation’s profile in the UK

Specific experience required

• The willingness and capability to devote the time needed to fulfil the role
• Non-executive and/or executive leadership experience at Board level either in the private or Not for Profit sectors
• Experience of chairing boards, or multidisciplinary groups
• Ability to think strategically, provide constructive challenge and build cohesion
• Requisite financial acumen
• Bi-partisan ability to represent the Board of Trustees appropriately and effectively across a wide range of stakeholders

Expectations of all Trustees

• Act in the Foundation’s best interests, ensuring the charity complies with its governance responsibilities, charity law, company law and any other relevant legislation or regulations, and ensure the effective management of resources and of risk;
• Bring personal experience and professional expertise to the Board; contribute to key strategic debates within the organisation; and help to strengthen Board governance; to, challenge and have Board-level strategic oversight of the Foundation’s work across the UK;
• Provide thought leadership and strategic insight into the Foundation’s development, research and influencing activities;
• Ensure that all the Foundation’s work is informed by the needs of babies, families and the professionals who work with them.

Our trustees come from all walks of life, bringing their experience and individual skills to our charity. The kind of skills that are in demand are business and strategy, finance and fundraising, IT and communications, safeguarding, health and early years. But you don’t need special qualifications to be a trustee – common sense, flexibility, time and an ability to work as part of a team, a willingness to learn, understanding of the pressures facing parents today and a genuine interest in supporting parents in your community are just as important to us. 

Trustees volunteer because they want to be involved in their community and improve the lives of parents and children. What they get back is the satisfaction of knowing that they have helped make a real difference. In many cases, being a trustee can enhance an individual’s skills and knowledge, build confidence and provide many opportunities for personal development, for future employment, provide a focus for an active retirement or a sense that their spare time has been put to good use. 

About Alopecia UK

Alopecia UK is a charity working to improve the lives of those affected by alopecia through aims of Support, Awareness and Research.  Founded in 2004, we work to help adults, young people and children affected by alopecia.  This includes those with the condition, as well as their loved ones.  We are a small charity working nationally across the UK.  Despite being small, we are the largest alopecia charity in the UK and have big ambitions to continue our growth and development, reaching more people and funding more research than ever before. 

We have a fantastic staff team and board of Trustees, as well as a loyal network of volunteers and supporters. This is a fantastic opportunity for a passionate and innovative applicant to support a small yet dynamic charity, and make a lasting difference to the lives of those affected by alopecia.

Alopecia UK Trustee Board

Our Board of Trustees is responsible for the overall strategic direction of Alopecia UK. They represent a wide range of expertise from across finance, healthcare, communications, management and risk; in both private and public sectors.

The Trustee Board meets 4 times a year (two face-to-face meetings and two virtual meetings). Face-to-face meetings tend to be held on Saturdays from approximately 11am-4pm. Virtual meetings tend to be held midweek from approximately 6.30-8.30pm.

Trustees are encouraged to participate in charity campaigns and attend flagship events e.g. our Big Weekend and Alton Towers trip.

Trustees serve for a period of three years, with some trustees serving for more than one term.

The duties of a Trustee are as follows:

• Ensuring that the organisation pursues its stated objects.
• Ensuring that the charity complies with its governing document, charity law, company law and any other relevant legislation or regulations.
• Ensuring that the charity applies its resources exclusively in pursuit of its charitable objects.
• Ensuring that the charity defines its goals and evaluates performance against agreed targets.
• Safeguarding the good name and values of the charity.
• Ensuring the effective and efficient administration of the charity, including having appropriate policies and procedures in place.
• Ensuring the financial stability of the charity.
• Protecting and managing the property of the charity and ensuring the proper investment of the charity’s funds.
• Following proper and formal arrangements for the appointment, supervision, support, appraisal and remuneration of the staff team.

In addition to the above statutory duties, each Trustee should use any specific skills, knowledge or experience they have to help the board of Trustees reach sound decisions. This may involve scrutinising board papers, leading discussions, focusing on key issues, providing advice and guidance on new initiatives, or other issues in which the Trustee has special expertise.

Please refer to the Charity Commission guidance on good practice of charity meetings, also to Alopecia UK’s Charity Commission records. You can also read Alopecia UK’s 2021-2024 strategy. 

Requirements for the role:

• A commitment to the charity’s mission to improve the lives of those affected by alopecia.
• A willingness to devote the necessary time and effort.
• Strategic vision with an ability to think creatively and generate ideas.
• Good, independent judgement.
• The confidence to challenge, question and speak their mind.
• An understanding and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities of trusteeship.
• An ability to work effectively as a member of a team.
• A commitment to Nolan’s seven principles of public life: selflessness, integrity, objectivity, accountability, openness, honesty and leadership.
• Ability to work collaboratively and establish credibility with the Charity's trustees.

Additional desirable skills:

• Charity experience/understanding of charity sector
• Legal background (compliance, data protection, HR etc)
• Fundraising experience
• Digital leadership skills
• Medical/clinical background

Supporting Statement

We would love to understand more about you and your reasons for wanting to join the board of trustees at Alopecia UK and this information will be key for us in shortlisting.  Within your supporting statement please comment on:

• Why you want to support the work of Alopecia UK as a trustee
• How you meet the person specification
• What you feel you would bring in terms of experience, skillset, and knowledge base
• Any knowledge/experience you have of Alopecia UK and whether you have been involved in the charity’s work in the past (not essential)

Your statement should not exceed 1,000 words. 

What is Alopecia?

Alopecia simply means hair loss.  There are many types of alopecia, and the charity supports people with all types of alopecia, because the psychological impact can be the same, regardless of cause or type.  The majority of people who contact Alopecia UK have Alopecia Areata, which is understood to be an autoimmune condition.  Alopecia Areata typically appears as patches on the scalp and/or beard. It sometimes progresses to Alopecia Totalis (total hair loss on the scalp), or Alopecia Universalis (total loss of hair from scalp, eyebrows, eyelashes and body).  This dramatic change in appearance, while not life threatening, is certainly life changing.  Altered feelings around identity and sense of self can impact on confidence and self-esteem, resulting in psychological challenges being presented in many everyday life situations.  What does Alopecia UK do?

Support – we facilitate peer support through our UK-wide support group network, online peer support platforms, national and regional events, and one-to-one support given to individuals via phone and emails.  We also maintain a website full of information, advice and support.

Awareness – we educate the general public about alopecia through social media, advice packs, events, our website and podcast.  We support various TV, radio, newspaper and magazine (both print and digital) media articles. We also advocate for the alopecia community amongst healthcare professionals and peer charities, with a view to improving the patient experience.

Research – we distribute research grants and lead our own research, with the support of our Research Committee and Lay Research Panel. We also support various research projects by helping to recruit participants for them.  We build awareness of alopecia research within the general public, the alopecia community and the medical community.

Alopecia UK Staff Team

Following 10 years of being entirely volunteer-led, Alopecia UK moved towards having paid staff resource in 2014, eventually culminating in the Charity’s first full-time employees in 2016.  The Charity opened its first office in the same year.  We now have six employed staff, led by our Chief Executive Officer Sue Schilling. Our staff are skilled, enthusiastic, and passionate about delivering the Charity’s aims.

While we have a small paid staff team, we have a larger overall team, as we utilise a lot of volunteer help in order for the Charity to provide the range of services that it does. 

Norfolk Citizens Advice provides free, confidential, accredited and impartial advice. We are looking for people who wish to contribute to the wellbeing of their local communities and develop their own skills and experience. 

What will you be doing?

We provide free, confidential, accredited and impartial advice, campaigning on big issues affecting people's lives. Our goal is to help everyone find a way forward, whatever problem they face.

We are an independent charity and part of the Citizens Advice network across England and Wales. People come to us with all sorts of issues: money, benefit, housing or employment problems. We help people who may be facing a crisis, or just considering their options.

We value diversity, promote equality and challenge discrimination wherever we see it.

We are looking for people who wish to contribute to the wellbeing of their local communities and welcome the opportunity to develop their own skills and experience.

What are we looking for?

No formal qualifications are required and we welcome trustees from a wide range of backgrounds. We are particularly interested in strengthening our skills in finance, fundraising and/development, people and culture and property management.

Experience in the health and social care sector, local government and local corporate organisations would also be helpful.

What difference will you make?

Thank you for your interest in becoming a Trustee at Norfolk Citizens Advice – a local charity for the whole community. You will be joining us at a time when there is increased demand for our services, as the economic challenges impact on people’s financial circumstances and their general well-being.

Our immediate imperative is to continue to maintain excellence in service delivery. Citizens Advice is a service that prizes quality very highly, and earlier this year we secured the highest levels of accreditation for our advice service that can be attained. We have long been a bold organisation that has the confidence to forge new paths and new relationships in pursuit of our commitments and stated objectives.

It is vital that our trustees share our passion for supporting our communities, valuing diversity, promoting equality and challenging discrimination wherever we see it. 

Before you apply

Your application should comprise a CV along with a supporting statement indicating how you meet the person specifications of the role and your motivations for applying. If you would like an informal and confidential discussion about the role, please request this in your email and we will arrange a conversation with the Chair of the Board of Trustees, David Browne.

Advert for additional trustees

The objective of Self Help UK is to promote the health and wellbeing of individuals through participation in self help groups and peer support activity We are at an exciting time moving from a mainly Nottingham based charity into an organisation working across the UK.

We are looking to expand the range of expertise and experience of our Board and are looking to recruit additional Trustees, with skills and experience in the following areas:

· Experience of attending or leading a self-help group or other peer support activities

· Financial management

· Fund raising/social investment

· HR, people management and organisation development

· Communications and marketing

Trustees are required to attend four board meetings per year plus the AGM, away days and any sub-committee meetings they are involved in. Most meetings will remain virtual but there will from time to time be a need to attend key meetings and events in Nottingham. The time commitment is approximately 6 – 10 hours per month, but there may be occasions when more time is required for a short period.

Trustee positions are unremunerated, but reasonable expenses will be reimbursed.

For an informal discussion please contact our Chair Nina Ennis 

To apply for this role please send the following information to Katharine Mckinnon  .

1. CV
2. Covering Letter (Please outline how you meet the criteria in the Person Specification)

The closing date for applications is 5pm on 31st January 2024. On receipt of your application, you will be sent an equal opportunity form to complete.

We are committed to creating and sustaining a fully inclusive community. We welcome applications from all backgrounds and communities. Much of our work has a focus on improving equality of access, opportunity and care, and we particularly welcome applications from individuals whose experience of inequalities might enlighten our future work

Clinks’ chair has completed two terms and will be stepping down at our AGM November 2024. We want to introduce our new chair in April 2024 to allow for good transition time, therefore between April - Nov you will be sat on our board as a trustee. This time will allow for an effective handover between you and our current chair before they step down. You will be coming on board as we implement our new strategy so you can have your say in this crucial development period.

We are looking for a chair who can lead that team well and work with the leadership team to steward a vibrant and vital voluntary sector.  Our new chair will need to be committed to voluntary action and believes in the potential and right of everyone to effective support to enable change. The Chair is pivotal to creating the conditions for overall board and individual director effectiveness, both inside and outside the boardroom.

You will need to have knowledge of the criminal justice system in England and Wales and the role of the voluntary sector within it, alongside knowledge of the UK voluntary sector and charity governance. A willingness to devote the necessary time and effort to the position, and be committed to the organisation, its values, and to anti-racism. Is essential as well as strategic vision, good judgement, leadership, and communication skills, to be able to govern our board of trustees to the highest standard.

We welcome applications from across society and we aim to have a diverse board representative of the communities impacted by criminal justice and the challenges they face. Clinks is committed to recognised as an anti-racist organisation and upholds the right of people with criminal convictions to take on paid and unpaid roles across society. If you are applying but might require a waiver due to criminal convictions, then we would be happy to speak to you about that process and how we might help. 

Onboarded as a trustee from April 2024 for efficient handover from current chair. Take on role of Chair of the Board from November AGM 2024.  

Learning Trustee/Chair

This is an exciting opportunity to get involved in an engaging, decision making role in a charity that inspires and empowers young disabled adults to live fulfilling, independent lives – promoting personal development through the arts.

About the Orpheus Centre

The mission of the Orpheus Centre is to inspire and empower young disabled students to live fulfilling, independent lives – promoting personal development through the arts.  All staff and volunteers are expected to understand and contribute to the Orpheus Centre ARTS Strategy, details of which are articulated in annual operational plans.

Our core values are to be Joyful, Bold, Inclusive, Resilient and Determined. These values are the foundations for all our work and are what the organisation stands for.

Why should you apply?

Orpheus is a vibrant Independent Specialist college for young disabled adults who have a passion for the arts and a desire to live independently. Orpheus believes that disabled people should have the same opportunities as their non-disabled peers.

The Board of Trustees are looking for a new Trustee who is passionate about our vision to empower and equip young disabled people with the skills and confidence they need in order to live independent and fulfilling lives in the community.

Time commitment

The time commitment is between 10 and 15 days per annum comprising of four Board meetings, including the AGM and ad-hoc attendance. The appointment we currently seek for Learning Trustee will also co-chair the Learning & Care sub-committee which meets four times per year, either virtually or in person.

What will you be doing?

The role of the Learning and Care Committee Chair includes but also goes beyond the role of other Trustees. So in addition to your duties as a Trustee, you will take a leadership role in ensuring that the Board fulfils its responsibilities for the governance of the Orpheus Centre in relation to Learning and Care. You will also work closely with the Chief Executive, Principal and Head of Care to support them in achieving the aims of the Orpheus Centre in the areas of Learning and Care, and will act as the channel of communication between the committee and the Board.

You will lead the committee, ensuring that it fulfils its responsibilities for good governance, and will work in partnership with the Principal and Head of Care, helping them to achieve the department’s aims.

Your responsibilities will include:

• providing effective scrutiny, challenge and questioning related to curriculum and learner progress;
• supporting the learning management team with quality activities, including annual trustee learning walks and quarterly deep dive activity;
• ensuring that you undertake a thorough induction programme;
• leading the Learning and Care Committee, including chairing committee meetings effectively;
• monitoring progress in implementing decisions taken at committee meetings and keeping in close touch with the work of the Learning and Care Departments in general – while always respecting the boundary between the respective roles of executives and non-executives; 
• acting as a spokesperson for Orpheus when requested and as appropriate;
• providing a written and oral update of the last committee meeting at each Board meeting;
• assessing and monitoring risks relevant to the Learning and Care functions of the Orpheus Centre; and
• monitoring and scrutinising performance data within the Learning and Care Departments.

How to apply

If you wish to apply for this position, please supply the following:

• A detailed CV setting out your career history, with responsibilities and achievements.
• A covering letter (maximum two sides) highlighting your suitability for the role and how you meet the person specification. Please note that the covering letter is an important part of your application.
• Details of two professional referees together with a brief statement of their relationship to you and over what period of time they have known you, referees will not be contacted without your prior consent.

The Orpheus Centre is proud to be a disability confident employer.

We have made a positive commitment to employing disabled people. Reasonable adjustments will be made to the recruitment procedure as required in consultation with the applicant to ensure no-one is disadvantaged because of their disability. If a disabled person is selected for a position, reasonable adjustments will be made to the workplace, including premises and equipment, work duties and practices or policies, as appropriate. All disabled applicants who meet the minimum criteria for the role as set out in the role profile and person specification will be guaranteed an interview.

As a Disability Confident Employer, we are:

Challenging attitudes towards disability

Increasing understanding of disability

Removing barriers to disabled people and those with long-term health conditions

Ensuring that disabled people have the opportunities to fulfil their potential and realise their aspiration

Dystonia UK is seeking a new Chair to lead the future development of the only national charity dedicated to supporting people with dystonia throughout the UK.

Who we are

Dystonia UK, the only national charity providing support, advocacy and information for anyone affected by dystonia, a neurological movement disorder estimated to affect 100,000 people in the UK. There is currently no cure. It may have a life-changing impact on both adults and children, requiring long term treatment and care. In addition to the physical impact of a movement disorder it also leads to pain, mental health problems, social isolation, and reduced employment opportunities.

The role

​We are looking for a new Chair who will succeed the present one at the end of his term of office.

We exist to give hope and support to those living with dystonia. Creating UK and worldwide awareness.

This is an exciting opportunity to lead the work of Dystonia UK, the only national charity providing support, advocacy and information for anyone affected by the neurological movement condition known as dystonia. This disabling condition may have a life-changing impact on both adults and children, requiring long term treatment and care. In addition to the physical impact of a movement disorder it also leads to pain, mental health problems, social isolation, and reduced employment opportunities.

Dystonia is a neurological movement disorder, estimated to affect 100,000 people in the UK. There is currently no cure. We have been successful in raising its profile and introducing innovative new outputs over the last few years, especially through developing our digital offerings. Nevertheless, our relatively low income means that operating on a UK-wide basis and meeting the varying needs of people living with dystonia is challenging.

We now seek someone with the leadership skills and commitment to take the charity forward into the next stage of its life. You will lead the small team of staff, trustees and volunteers to maximise the benefits we can achieve for people living with dystonia while ensuring that the charity can operate in a financially and operationally sustainable way.

You will bring a commitment to the organisation and its strategic vision alongside a strong willingness to devote the necessary time and effort to its management and governance. You will also demonstrate a willingness to learn about dystonia and the support needed by people living with dystonia.

You should have:

· Previous experience in management in the private, public or third sector, especially involving financial responsibility,

· The ability to lead and develop a team of staff and trustees, and work with other stakeholders, to achieve the charity’s objectives,

· Experience of strategic and organisational planning,

· A willingness to devote the necessary time and effort to the role including attending some events,

· Excellent communication skills,

· An understanding of the legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities of charity trustees,

· A commitment to Nolan’s seven principles of public life: selflessness, integrity, objectivity, accountability, openness, honesty and leadership,

· Good digital skills as we now operate largely remotely, although some meetings take place in person for staff management or to support team building.

Desirable experience would include:

· A previous role as Chair or in a senior capacity in a charity,

· Previous experience of working with people with disabilities or healthcare needs,

· Understanding of the structure of the NHS

​Your leadership will be vital to ensuring the long term sustainability of the charity and the development of successful ways of achieving its objectives.

As a small charity, trustees are actively involved in some of our operational activities and the Chair also undertakes some executive responsibilities. Over time, it is intended that these activities should be spread more widely among trustees or volunteers.

Further information about Dystonia UK can be found on our website.

The Community Foundation for Staffordshire and Shropshire is the leading independent grant-giving body in Staffordshire and Shropshire.  We award more than £2m each year to voluntary and community groups, registered charities and social enterprises across our area.  We are based in Stafford, with a satellite office in Telford, and are committed to supporting our local voluntary, community and social enterprise sector.

We are looking to expand our board and have positions available for people who are embedded in their local communities.  You may already have served on a board as a charity trustee, but we are especially keen to hear from people who might otherwise be under-represented on boards, or from under-represented communities.

Applications will close on Friday 5th January 2024.  We will hold interviews, which may be virtual, the week commencing 15th January.  Any successful candidates will be invited to attend our board meetings from March 2024.